20/06/2023

Documentary on Sayfo Genocide screened in Hengelo, Netherlands

HENGELO, Netherlands — In the hall of Virgin Mary Church in Hengelo, Netherlands, a documentary about the Sayfo Genocide by Turkish director Altan Sinjar was screened. The film depicts the atrocities committed against the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people during the First World War by the Ottoman Empire.

This powerful documentary, featuring insightful interviews, is part of the Sayfo Genocide activities program launched by the European Syriac Union (ESU). It is being showcased in numerous countries to commemorate the 108th anniversary of the Sayfo, in collaboration with other Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) institutions across Europe.

The screening was accompanied by a prayer conducted by Father Foulos Akman and Father Barsoum Dogan, along with a group of deacons, honoring the souls of the Sayfo martyrs.

Director Altan Sinjar is a Turkish citizen hailing from a family that personally witnessed the events and tragedies of the Sayfo.

During the event, ESU Co-Chair Fehmi Vergili delivered a poignant speech emphasizing the significance of showcasing films that document the Sayfo and contribute to raising awareness about the Sayfo Genocide in various international forums.

Director Altan Sinjar joined remotely to present his film and delivered a speech, outlining his objective of creating a cinematic piece that recounts the historical events of the Sayfo.